Q:  Assalamu aleikun, Sheikh Mehtar,
Thank you in advance for answering my questions.  This will be my first year to observe Ramadan.  It is not my desire to be a “cafeteria Muslim” to pick and choose which parts of the faith to observe and which guidelines to follow.  My questions regarding Ramadan  are:  1)is drinking of water allowable during the day light hours of Ramadan?  2)In regards to health issues – if sugar levels must be maintained – is it allowable to partake of small amounts of orange juice (or other sugar producing items) during the daylight hours?  3)With my employment, we at times have luncheon meetings – where lunch is a part of the meeting.  Rather than to draw criticism toward Islam, would it be better for me to extend the length of Ramadan by one day?

Thank you for all the patience you have with me while I learn the things that Allah desires for me to learn.  Islam has brought so much peace and happiness to my life.

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I am glad to hear from you. It makes me very happy that you are willing to do the correct thing at all times. You make us proud of you.
A1)One cannot consume anything while fasting. To intentionally drink even a sip of water would not be permissible.
A2) If one has a health condition that prohibits them from fasting, they should not fast. One must give fidya (a type of compensation) for the fast that could not be done. However, later on, when the ill condition eliminates itself, or during winter months when the days are shorter, one can do a make up for what has been missed.
A3) At the luncheon if you are able to fast, then merely excuse yourself by saying: i would love to eat, however, i am undergoing a condition that minimizes what i can and cannot consume.
I do understand that fasting, praying etc. can be a challenge, gradually, as you get accustomed to it, things would turn out for the best, Ameen.
As a new Muslim, go easy, gain a good grasp and always be your best.
(The above has been dictated by the Imaam)

Allah Certainly Knows Best.